Is Invisalign a treatment option for malocclusions?

22 Nov Is Invisalign a treatment option for malocclusions?

When a patient undergoes orthodontic treatment for a straighter smile, the problems that need to be corrected may go beyond the teeth. A misaligned jaw can also have a detrimental effect on the smile’s appearance and contribute to the malocclusion or “bad bite.”

Austin Invisalign patients can take advantage of this tray aligning system to correct malocclusions in addition to straightening the teeth.

Malocclusions are categorized into three classes. Class I is excessive crowding of teeth, while Class II consists of overbites. Class III malocclusions are commonly referred to as underbites. Crossbites, in which the arches are shifted to different sides, are also considered to be malocclusions. Invisalign has demonstrated success in treating malocclusions of all three classes, along with crossbites.

When using Invisalign as an intervention, the dentist will consider the malocclusion as part of the treatment plan. Invisalign trays move the teeth and the jaws into the correct alignment. Each arch is treated separately, allowing the dentist to move the upper and lower teeth and jaws independently of each other.

Although most Invisalign patients are primarily motivated by aesthetic concerns, malocclusions inhibit the teeth and jaws from functioning properly, as well. Correcting these bad bites will also improve the patient’s ability to chew and prevent long-term damage to the teeth.

The Invisalign system is appealing to patients because of the many advantages it offers in comparison to traditional braces. Unlike the brackets and wires that detract from the smile, the clear Invisalign trays are barely noticeable to an outside observer. Because Invisalign can be removed for brushing and flossing and at mealtime, patients do not need to make any adjustments to their regular routines.

Patients with malocclusions may believe that their cases are too complex for Invisalign, but it’s always important to consult with a dentist before ruling out this approach. The Invisalign technology is constantly evolving and becoming more advanced, and it is now capable of correcting very complicated problems.

Each patient has unique bone and teeth structures, so ask Dr. Paul Lounsberry at Balcones Family Dental if Invisalign is an appropriate treatment in your case.